Bridgeport Reservoir, California - Image 1
1 / 3

Bridgeport Reservoir California

4.5
·37 reviews·, United States

Scenic reservoir for boating & trout fishing, surrounded by campgrounds and natural hot springs.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal for boating and fishing

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Bridgeport Reservoir, California - Image 1

Bridgeport Reservoir California

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal for boating and fishing

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scenic reservoir for boating & trout fishing, surrounded by campgrounds and natural hot springs.

4.5
(37 reviews)

"Nice lake for fishing. Motor boats allowed. Beautiful scenery."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Fishing Hotspots

Trout fishing is popular here. Check with local guides like Feathered Hook for current bite info.

♨️ Hot Springs Etiquette

Respect these natural spots. Pack out all trash and leave them as you found them.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bridgeport Reservoir

Bridgeport Reservoir

Bridgeport, California

A vast, scenic reservoir perfect for boating and trout fishing, surrounded by campgrounds.

Travertine Hot Springs

Travertine Hot Springs

Near Bridgeport, CA

Natural, mineral-rich hot springs offering a relaxing soak with breathtaking mountain vistas.

Buckeye Hot Springs

Buckeye Hot Springs

Near Bridgeport, CA

Secluded natural hot springs with serene river views, ideal for a peaceful escape.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Bridgeport Reservoir is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Boating, trout fishing, and camping are popular activities. Be prepared for varying water levels, as the reservoir can be shallow at times. Check conditions before you go, especially if swimming is on your agenda.

Hot Springs Nearby

While the reservoir itself is great for fishing and boating, the surrounding area boasts natural hot springs like Travertine and Buckeye. These offer a relaxing soak with stunning mountain views, making them a perfect complement to your reservoir visit. TikTok+3

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Ideal for boating and fishing
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Stunning foliage, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, camping
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Travertine Hot Springs / Dirección: 415 Jack Sawyer Rd, Bridgeport, CA 93517 #algobien #california #losangeles #aguastermales #lugares #traveler #PlacesToVisit #camping #parati #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii #soySABILLON
@ericksabill0n
28.1K likes • 726.9K views

🎣 Fishing Hotspots

Trout fishing is popular here. Check with local guides like Feathered Hook for current bite info. Instagram

♨️ Hot Springs Etiquette

Respect these natural spots. Pack out all trash and leave them as you found them. TikTok+1

Travertine Hot Springs, Bridgeport, California, son las aguas termales que le recomiendo visitar. #travertine #hotsprings #bridgeport #california #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii #placesincalifornia #placestogo #PlacesToVisit #algobien #elviajedekarla #travel #places #lugares #lugaresencalifornia #family #viaje #viajes #californiatravel #californiatrip #californiaadventure #californiaplaces #Viral...
@elviajedekarla_
26.4K likes • 784.1K views
Bridgeport Reservoir is nearly at capacity! When was the last time you saw it this full?! 🎥: @monocountytourism
easternsierramountains
319 likes • 3.1K views

🏕️ Camping Options

From RV parks to tent sites, book ahead, especially during peak season. Instagram+1

🚗 Road Trip Essential

Bridgeport is a gem on the scenic Highway 395. Don't miss the fall colors! Instagram

Cool Fun Things to do in Bridgeport Reservoir California besides camping and nice weather #HighwayToMore #BridgeportCalifornia #Troquero #sierranevada #OnTheRoadAgain
backstage.gabe
40 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Fishing Hotspots

Trout fishing is popular here. Check with local guides like Feathered Hook for current bite info. Instagram

♨️ Hot Springs Etiquette

Respect these natural spots. Pack out all trash and leave them as you found them. TikTok+1

🏕️ Camping Options

From RV parks to tent sites, book ahead, especially during peak season. Instagram+1

🚗 Road Trip Essential

Bridgeport is a gem on the scenic Highway 395. Don't miss the fall colors! Instagram

💧 Water Levels

Reservoir levels can vary. It's often shallow, so swimming might not be ideal. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(37 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bridgeport Reservoir offers a fun, scenic experience for fishing and boating, though it's noted for being shallow. Visitors appreciate the beautiful surroundings and the nearby natural hot springs, making it a worthwhile stop on Highway 395. Some find it less pristine than other fishing spots in the area.

"Bridgeport Reservoir is not the nicest place to fish in the area, but definetly fun. My pals and I fish at the reservoir in November. Enjoy a good carne asada while we fish."

Carlos Gutierrez

"Nice lake for fishing. Motor boats allowed. The lake is kind of shallow. Beautiful scenery. Nice parks and camp grounds surrounding the lake."

Pixi

"It is pretty, but we thought we could swim there.
That's not the case!"

Dieter Jordan

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Trout fishing
Nearby hot springs

What People Dislike

Shallow water
Can be less pristine

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bridgeport Reservoir is located in Bridgeport, California, accessible via Highway 395. It's a scenic drive, often part of a larger Eastern Sierra road trip. Instagram+1

While not directly in Yosemite, Bridgeport Reservoir is a beautiful stop on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada, often visited by those traveling to or from Yosemite via Tioga Pass (seasonal). Instagram

A personal vehicle is highly recommended for exploring Bridgeport Reservoir and its surrounding attractions like the hot springs. TikTok+1

Public transport options are very limited in this remote mountain region. Driving is the most practical way to reach and explore Bridgeport Reservoir. Instagram

Highway 395 is generally well-maintained, but conditions can change rapidly in winter. Always check road conditions before traveling, especially during snowy months. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no specific entry permit is required for the reservoir itself. However, some dispersed camping areas or specific trailheads might have regulations. Always check local forest service or BLM information. Instagram

Yes, campgrounds surrounding Bridgeport Reservoir typically have camping fees. These can vary depending on the facility and amenities. Instagram+1

Bridgeport Reservoir is an outdoor natural area and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. Campgrounds have specific check-in/check-out times. Instagram

While some visitors may attempt to swim, the reservoir is often shallow and can be quite cold. It's not typically considered a primary swimming destination. Reddit

Travertine and Buckeye Hot Springs are natural, undeveloped areas and are generally free to access. However, donations are sometimes appreciated to help with upkeep. TikTok+2

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The reservoir is popular for boating, kayaking, and especially trout fishing. The surrounding areas offer hiking and access to natural hot springs. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Bridgeport Reservoir is known for trout fishing. Local guides can offer insights into the best spots and times. InstagramReddit

You might spot various bird species, deer, and other high-desert wildlife. The Eastern Sierra region is rich in biodiversity. TikTok

Yes, the Eastern Sierra offers numerous hiking opportunities, from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging mountain treks. The nearby hot springs also involve short walks. TikTok+1

The reservoir can be quite shallow, and the water temperature is generally cold, even in summer. It's more suited for boating and fishing than swimming. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Bridgeport town has a few dining options, including diners and casual eateries. For a more extensive selection, you might need to travel to larger nearby towns. TikTok

Absolutely! There are many scenic spots around the reservoir perfect for a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

Yes, there are grocery stores in Bridgeport where you can stock up on supplies for camping and picnics. Ken's Sporting Goods is also mentioned for fishing needs. Reddit

Most campers prepare their own meals. Grilling and cooking at your campsite is a popular option. Instagram+1

Campgrounds typically do not have on-site food services. It's best to bring all your food and drinks with you. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning mountain backdrops, the vast expanse of the reservoir, and the surrounding natural beauty. Sunrises and sunsets offer dramatic light. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) provide the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Instagram

Yes, due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, the area around Bridgeport Reservoir is excellent for astrophotography. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is essential for low-light and astrophotography. TikTok

Yes, the hot springs offer unique photographic opportunities, especially with the mountain scenery. Be mindful of other visitors and respect the natural environment. TikTok+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bridgeport Reservoir offers a great outdoor adventure for families. Kids will enjoy boating and fishing on the lake, and the surrounding campgrounds provide a fun base for exploration. Instagram+1 While swimming might be limited due to shallow and cold water, the open spaces are perfect for running around and playing. Reddit Consider packing picnic lunches to enjoy by the water. Reddit

Don't miss a visit to the nearby Travertine Hot Springs for a unique and relaxing experience. While undeveloped, the warm pools can be a hit with older children who can safely enjoy them. TikTok+1 Ensure constant supervision and check water temperatures. The drive along Highway 395 is also scenic and can be an adventure in itself. Instagram

🎣 Anglers and Boaters

Bridgeport Reservoir is a dedicated spot for trout fishing and boating. Anglers can expect to find rainbow and brown trout, and motorboats are permitted, allowing for a wider range of fishing techniques. InstagramReddit Local guides can offer valuable insights into the best fishing spots and times. Instagram

Boaters should be aware of the reservoir's shallow nature, which can impact navigation. Reddit It's wise to check current water levels and be cautious of submerged hazards. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also excellent ways to enjoy the water and explore the shoreline at a more relaxed pace. Instagram

♨️ Relaxation Seekers

For those seeking tranquility, the natural hot springs near Bridgeport Reservoir are a must-visit. Travertine and Buckeye Hot Springs offer serene environments for soaking and unwinding amidst stunning mountain scenery. TikTok+2 These undeveloped gems provide a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle. TikTok

While the reservoir itself is more activity-focused, the surrounding campgrounds offer a chance to relax in nature. Enjoy stargazing under clear, dark skies, or simply soak in the quiet beauty of the Eastern Sierra. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Hot Springs

The Bridgeport area is renowned for its natural hot springs, offering a perfect contrast to the reservoir's activities. Travertine Hot Springs is a popular choice, featuring several pools with varying temperatures and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. TikTokInstagram+2 Buckeye Hot Springs offers a more secluded experience, nestled along the river, providing a tranquil setting for a relaxing soak. TikTok Remember that these are natural, undeveloped springs, so pack out everything you pack in and be respectful of the environment. TikTok+1

These hot springs are a fantastic addition to any trip to Bridgeport Reservoir, providing a chance to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the Eastern Sierra. They are easily accessible with short walks from parking areas, making them a convenient and rewarding detour. TikTok+1 Many visitors combine a visit to the reservoir with an afternoon or evening at one of these geothermal wonders. TikTok+1

When visiting, be aware that water levels and temperatures can fluctuate. It's advisable to check recent visitor feedback or local conditions if possible. Always wear appropriate footwear for rocky terrain and bring water to stay hydrated. TikTok+2

Fishing and Boating at the Reservoir

Bridgeport Reservoir is a prime spot for trout fishing, with anglers often targeting rainbow and brown trout. Motorboats are permitted, making it ideal for those who enjoy casting lines from a moving vessel. InstagramReddit The reservoir's scenic setting, surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, enhances the fishing experience. Instagram+1

While the reservoir offers opportunities for boating and fishing, it's important to note that it can be quite shallow, especially during drier periods. Reddit This means that boaters should be cautious of submerged obstacles and plan their routes accordingly. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also enjoyable activities here, offering a more intimate way to explore the water. Instagram

For the best fishing advice, consider consulting local guides like Feathered Hook Guide Service, who can provide up-to-date information on fish activity and the best locations. Instagram Remember to check local regulations and obtain any necessary fishing licenses before you cast your line. Reddit

Camping and Outdoor Recreation

Bridgeport Reservoir is a popular destination for camping, offering a range of options from RV parks to more primitive sites. Campgrounds like Bridgeport Reservoir Campground and Paradise Shores Camp provide convenient access to the water and surrounding natural beauty. Instagram+1 Many sites offer stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the high-desert landscape. Instagram

Beyond camping, the area is a hub for outdoor recreation. Hiking trails abound in the Eastern Sierra, offering diverse terrain and breathtaking vistas. TikTok The proximity to Highway 395 makes it a fantastic stop for road-trippers looking to explore the scenic byway and its hidden gems. Instagram Whether you're pitching a tent, parking an RV, or simply enjoying a day trip, Bridgeport Reservoir provides a gateway to the rugged charm of California's eastern side. Instagram

When planning your camping trip, it's advisable to book your spot in advance, especially during peak summer months, as campgrounds can fill up quickly. Instagram+1 Be prepared for variable weather conditions, as mountain environments can experience rapid changes. TikTok